Michael Hennessy Obituary

Name: Visitation for Michael Hennessy
Start: 2025-01-17T10:00:00.000Z
End: 2025-01-17T11:00:00.000Z
Location: St. Joan of Arc Church

Published by Legacy Remembers on Jan. 2, 2025.

Michael Hennessy, of Burnsville, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on December 9, 2024, after a battle with prostate cancer. He was surrounded by his loving family in his final moments.

Michael was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. For nearly 30 years, Michael traveled the world as a mime artist, captivating audiences with performances that explored themes of humanity: joy, loss, love, and politics. His artistry touched countless lives and left an indelible mark on the hearts of many.

In his later years, Michael embraced new passions with the same enthusiasm that defined his life. As the wine buyer at McDonald's Liquor Store, he developed an impressive knowledge of wines and took great pride in sharing his expertise. Michael also found joy on the waters of the Mississippi River after purchasing a boat and joining the Coast Guard Auxiliary, where he immersed himself in learning all he could about boating and navigation.

Michael is survived by his devoted wife, Joni Hennessy; his children Vanessa (Joel) Hennessy, Shauna (Kevin) Hennessy Kidimu, and Bri Hennessy; his brother Les Hennessy; and his cherished grandchildren Keegan, Vivian, Makeda, and Re. He was preceded in death by his parents, Dolly and Leslie Hennessy, as well as his great aunt and uncle, Dan and Laverne Piechocki.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on January 17, 2025, at St. Joan of Arc Church in South Minneapolis. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by the service at 11:00 a.m., with lunch to follow.

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Recent Activity

February 25, 2025

Lorraine Smith (Peanuts) posted to the memorial.

January 17, 2025

Deb Harley posted to the memorial.

January 13, 2025

Robin & Alicia Villarreal planted trees.

4 Entries

Lorraine Smith (Peanuts)

February 25, 2025

I knew Michael from the University of Minnesota theater class...I knew his brother Les too. They would know me by my nickname Peanuts. He was exceptionally talented and I remember Jessica Lang and Michael performed together and had a little act going. But I remember Michael as a kind and gentle soul.. he was just a beautiful person- a good friend, a music lover and happy. There were a couple of us who spent a snowy Christmas Eve ice skating & not having grown up in Minneapolis or snow country I was a novice- the group - pretty much all theater students -Chris Mulkey, Tim Burke, and Susan Johnsrud & maybe George Finley?? to name a few..Chris was my boyfriend and later became my husband then my ex ( but still friends) we were all hanging out together...then we all went to Michael & Les´s house...playing music..there was a lot of emotional stuff happening that night- it was also magical. Nice memories.
What´s weird is that I have not seen or talked to Michael in years.. I´m in Florida miles away and he suddenly came to mind. I didn´t know he passed away so what made me look him up? I don´t know but I feel like I´ve been tapped on the shoulder by an Angel. Rest in Peace Michael.

Deb Harley

January 17, 2025

Michael added the very best in his performances for many years at the St.
Joan of Arc Cabaret. You will be missed Michael... for your talent and your big heart

Robin & Alicia Villarreal

Planted Trees

Dik Hedlund

January 12, 2025

Michael loved music and he especially enjoyed playing his guitar and singing. Whenever he would set up his musical equipment for a jam session in his garage, Michael would call and ask me if I would come by and be part of his musical group. There usually were four or five players who would come by his place to play and sing. He would supply some snacks and refreshments and seemed to really enjoy the experience.